We must save the economy before spending on GRNMA demands — Kwakye Ofosu

Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, says the country’s economy could collapse if the demands of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) are met immediately.

He explained that government’s proposal to defer implementation of the association’s Collective Agreement to 2026 is a strategic move to protect the economy from potential strain.

Speaking in an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express on Tuesday, June 10, Mr Kwakye Ofosu said the estimated GHS2 billion annual cost to meet the demands could even be higher.

“This is about saving the economy. You need a functioning economy before you can meet any of these demands,” he stated.

“We cannot make commitments that will destroy the very system we need to fund essential services,” he added.

He noted that while the Deputy Finance Minister has pegged the cost at GHS2 billion, other estimates project a much higher figure.

“The question is, can the national budget absorb this—especially when other public sector workers also have legitimate needs?” he asked.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu also emphasised that although government is a continuum, every administration must take steps to address harmful fiscal policies.

“Yes, government is a continuum. But there’s a reason why governments change. If something threatens the economy, you don’t follow it blindly. You take corrective measures,” he said.

Meanwhile, the GRNMA says it is disappointed in the government for excluding its demands from the 2025 budget, arguing it shows a lack of value for their work.

The association is currently on strike over unpaid allowances and unfulfilled aspects of its 2024 Collective Agreement.

Key demands include a 13th-month salary, fuel and medical allowances, rural incentives, renewal of practising licences, and provision of uniforms.